AdTechGod Pod Episode 80: Beyond the Feed with Shawn Lim

Release Date: May 27, 2025

In Episode 80 of the AdTechGod Pod, host AdTechGod engages in a profound conversation with Shawn Lim, the founder of Human Algorithm. This episode delves into Shawn’s journey through the advertising technology industry, his transition into personal branding and the creator economy, and his passionate advocacy for marginalized communities.

1. Introducing Shawn Lim and His Journey

Timestamp: 01:06 – 02:49

AdTechGod welcomes Shawn Lim, highlighting his role as the founder of Human Algorithm—a media platform at the crossroads of business, media, technology, and culture with a keen focus on personal branding. Shawn's extensive background includes significant stints at renowned agencies such as WPP Group and Publicis, where he honed his skills in copywriting and marketing.

Shawn Lim shares his early career aspirations:
“I always wanted to write for a living and I started out as a copywriter.”
(02:49)

2. Transition to Journalism and Advocacy

Timestamp: 02:49 – 05:57

Feeling unfulfilled in the traditional advertising roles, Shawn pivoted towards journalism, seeking to tell long-form stories. He joined Vox Sports as a sports journalist and later transitioned to The Drum, where he covered advertising, marketing, and adtech. His tenure at Campaign as a tech and media editor further specialized his focus on emerging trends like AI and the diminishing role of cookies in advertising.

3. Founding Human Algorithm: A Purpose-Driven Mission

Timestamp: 05:57 – 08:58

The catalyst for founding Human Algorithm was deeply personal. Shawn's daughter, who is neurodiverse with a possibility of autism, inspired him to create a platform that highlights marginalized and underrepresented communities. As a queer individual identifying as pansexual and gender fluid, Shawn aimed to provide representation and a safe space for his daughter and others facing similar challenges.

Shawn Lim reflects on his motivation:
“I wanted to create a platform for my daughter... to create representation for my daughter.”
(05:57)

4. Building a Personal Brand Through Authenticity

Timestamp: 08:58 – 10:52

Shawn discusses the intersection of his journalism and marketing expertise in shaping his personal brand. Emphasizing authenticity, he shares how moving away from agency-associated identities to fostering his own brand on platforms like LinkedIn has resonated deeply with his audience. His posts often blend professional insights with personal narratives, fostering a community grounded in genuine connection and support.

Shawn Lim emphasizes:
“I can help people with that authenticity and vulnerability because it's something that a lot of people struggle with.”
(08:58)

5. Navigating Vulnerability in the Public Sphere

Timestamp: 11:26 – 15:42

The conversation shifts to the challenges of maintaining vulnerability while personalizing one's brand. Shawn underscores the importance of sharing meaningful stories without oversharing or reducing his narrative to trauma dumping. His approach ensures that each piece of content serves as a takeaway, encouraging positive change in his audience’s lives.

Shawn Lim explains his content philosophy:
“It's about does this content make sense in terms of helping people to make a change in their life?”
(14:33)

6. The Future of the Creator Economy and Monetization

Timestamp: 17:06 – 19:06

Looking ahead, Shawn envisions a robust future for podcasts within the creator economy, highlighting their intimate nature and capacity for storytelling. He anticipates increased collaboration between creators and brands, particularly in B2B spaces, leveraging podcasts as a medium for engaging and authentic content.

Shawn Lim predicts:
“Podcast has been exploding... and it's going to be one of the key staples of the creator economy.”
(17:06)

7. Final Insights and Encouragement

Timestamp: 19:06 – 19:16

In closing, Shawn imparts a succinct yet powerful message to listeners:
“In everything you do, ask and don't assume, because you might never know where that might lead.”
(19:06)

Conclusion

Episode 80 of the AdTechGod Pod offers a compelling exploration of Shawn Lim’s multifaceted career and his dedication to fostering inclusivity within the adtech and creator communities. Through authentic storytelling and a commitment to purpose-driven content, Shawn exemplifies the impactful synergy between personal branding and advocacy.

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